Australian Digital Inclusion Index Launched

A research project that aims to capture the extent of digital inclusion in Australia was launched in Melbourne today. Called the Australian Digital Inclusion Index, it is a joint initiative of Telstra, the Swinburne Institute for Social Research and the Centre for Social Impact. It is a data-driven tool that aims to improve our understanding of digital inclusion and its interaction with social and economic disadvantage in Australia.

Digital Inclusion is recognised as one of the key social justice challenges facing policy makers and communities worldwide.

Telstra’s Group Managing Director, Consumer and Products, Karsten Wildberger said “Today, access to online services, connected via the internet wherever you live, work or travel, has become basic and essential – something everyone needs to survive in our increasingly digital economy and society”.

While the internet has transformed our lives, 4 million Australians are still not online, and are missing out on the education, health, social and financial benefits of being connected.

The research project launched today will create an Index by which to measure progress in improving digital inclusion in Australia.

It will provide critical insights to inform more effective policies, products and programs to ensure that all Australians can get online and enjoy the benefits that connection can bring.

“We are very pleased to be partnering with the Swinburne Institute for Social Research and the Centre for Social Impact on this new project”, Mr Wildberger said.